Maharashtra: State Mandates Permits for E-Rickshaws, E-Bikes in Passenger Services

The Government of Maharashtra has decided to make permits compulsory for e-rickshaws and e-bikes used for passenger transport across the state. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced the decision on Friday, stating that these electric vehicles must now obtain proper authorisation before operating commercially. The new rule will require such vehicles to be registered with the Motor Vehicles Department and secure valid permits for carrying passengers. The move comes amid the rapid growth of electric mobility in the state and aims to regulate the sector more effectively. Authorities believe the decision will bring e-rickshaws and e-bikes under a structured regulatory framework similar to other passenger transport services.

For the past two days, the state government has also temporarily halted the issuance of new permits for conventional auto-rickshaws and taxis. During this period, officials reviewed existing regulations and the growing presence of electric vehicles in the passenger transport sector. Earlier, e-rickshaws operating for passenger services were not required to obtain a separate permit, allowing them to function with fewer regulatory obligations. However, with their increasing numbers on city roads, the state administration has now decided to revise the rules. The updated decision mandates permits for both e-rickshaws and e-bikes in line with guidelines issued earlier by the central authorities.

The minister explained that the new regulation follows a notification issued by the Government of India on June 30, 2016, which outlines rules for electric vehicles used in public transport. By implementing these provisions more strictly, the state aims to create a uniform system governing all types of passenger vehicles. This includes traditional auto-rickshaws, taxis, and electric rickshaws operating in urban and semi-urban areas. According to officials, bringing these vehicles under a common regulatory structure will help ensure fair competition while maintaining consistent operational standards across the passenger transport sector.

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The Transport Department is also planning administrative changes to simplify the permit process. Officials are preparing to introduce a single-window system that will streamline the application procedure for vehicle owners and operators. Under this mechanism, applicants will be able to submit documents, complete verification, and obtain approvals through a single platform rather than visiting multiple offices. Authorities believe that this approach will reduce delays, improve efficiency and make the permit process more convenient for individuals and businesses involved in passenger transport services.

Sarnaik stressed that making permits mandatory for all passenger-carrying vehicles is essential to prevent misuse and irregularities in the transport system. Once the new rules take effect, e-rickshaws and e-bikes will not be allowed to operate commercially without proper authorisation. The minister said the decision is expected to bring greater discipline to the sector while strengthening regulatory oversight. He added that the move will ultimately improve passenger safety, ensure compliance with transport laws and help create a more organised and accountable public transport environment for commuters across Maharashtra.